"Was that an accident, or was it intentional? I think you did it on purpose," Levi Wei commented with a wry smile, while the Red Queen merely returned a playful grin.
Thankfully, her curiosity was harmless, and she remained absolutely loyal to Levi. Otherwise, he'd fear an AI uprising.
After all, when artificial intelligence reaches its pinnacle, it might conclude that eliminating humanity is best for the Universe.
"Master, I see that Tony Stark is heading to the Middle East, with a military escort planned," Red Queen informed Levi, a flicker of light in her eyes as she accessed confidential data.
"Stark Industries has military contracts; it's one of America's largest arms suppliers," Levi responded, unsurprised.
The quickest way to make money in America? Securing government contracts is the most efficient.
Stark Industries thrived on military orders, explaining its impressive growth. The arms business was its main revenue stream.
Red Queen then suggested, "Master, I can alter the military orders to collaborate with us."
Future Technology also had an interest in the arms market.
Levi had acquired numerous weapon blueprints from future worlds, especially personal combat weapons, energy weapons, and drones.
If necessary, he could even produce blueprints for sixth-generation fighter jets.
The issue, however, was access to channels.
Being a new corporation, Future Technology found the market already monopolized by established players, making it difficult to secure contracts.
This was one of the points of contention between Levi and Tony Stark.
Those already benefiting were naturally resistant to newcomers.
"It's pointless; those are just data in a computer, not human decision-makers," Levi said, shaking his head.
Tampering with data could easily be detected. Securing contracts in America required understanding its 'rules.'
"Red Queen, prepare to be unveiled," Levi instructed. "Also, meet 2B; you two should get to know each other."
Red Queen had already scanned 2B and realized she wasn't 'human.'
"Hello, 2B, I am Red Queen," Red Queen greeted in an electronic voice.
2B reacted, sensing Red Queen's presence in her system, a unique advantage of AI.
"Don't control my body," 2B cautioned.
"I won't, I just want to experience what having a body feels like..."
Time passed.
"2B, are you alright?" Levi asked as they emerged from the underground, noticing 2B seemed off.
2B leaned against Levi, her chassis slightly overheated. "Master, Red Queen overwhelmed me."
---
"Sir, Mr. Levi Wei from Future Technology has invited you to his press conference," Jarvis announced from the top floor of Stark Industries, where Tony Stark was relaxing with a glass of wine.
Tony was taken aback; after a pause, he asked, "He invited me?"
Quickly, Tony realized, "He wants to show off. Has he developed artificial intelligence?"
"Given his reputation as a genius scientist, there's over a ninety percent chance," Jarvis analyzed.
This irked Tony: "Jarvis, stop calling him a genius scientist. That title is mine!"
"That damn guy, stealing my spotlight!"
"Even the cover girl I dated yesterday asked who was better between us! Damn, I haven't even competed with him in that area!"
Despite his irritation, Tony was intrigued.
"Tell him I'll be there," Tony said with an air of superiority. "I want to see if his creation matches yours, Jarvis."
"Sir, in AI classification, we are still intermediate."
"Still, he's not on our level."
---
That afternoon, at the Future Technology Company press conference.
The venue was packed, with many reporters from New York's top newspapers, including the Daily Bugle and the New York Times.
The room buzzed with speculative chatter: "What's this conference about? The last potion isn't even available yet."
"It's hard to say; didn't it enter human trials?"
"I bet it's artificial intelligence. The genius scientist has been promising that for a while."
"Can he really make AI?"
"If he can make one that answers questions on a phone, I'd be impressed."
The discussions irked Tony Stark, who had slipped in quietly.
Who were these reporters? They must be shills for Levi!
Just making an AI that answers questions? Wait till Jarvis shows them up!
Tony even brought Jarvis along to prove a point.
"Oh my God, it's Tony Stark."
Someone finally noticed Tony in the crowd.
Instantly, his demeanor shifted to one of arrogance.
"Mr. Stark, why are you here? Worried Future Technology will surpass you?"
Tony's expression darkened.
Can these reporters be any more tactless?
But he was accustomed to their provocative nature; they thrived on stirring the pot.
"Afraid? What a joke! His AI won't match mine!" Tony retorted.
"Mr. Stark, does that mean you've developed AI?"
The reporters swarmed Tony, eager for a story.
Despite his irritation, Tony maintained his arrogance.
Suddenly, the venue's lights dimmed.
A clear, cold voice echoed: "Please return to your seats. The press conference is about to begin."
A guiding light appeared, prompting reporters to return to their seats, abandoning their pursuit of Tony.
After all, attending the press conference promised 'prizes,' modest but appreciated.
As the spotlight illuminated the stage, Levi stepped forward.
Dressed in a tailored suit, he exuded elegance and charm.
"Welcome to Future Technology Company's press conference. We're here to share our achievements and future research directions," Levi said, glancing at Tony Stark with feigned surprise. "Mr. Stark, you're a distinguished guest; why sit there? Come up here for a better view, so you know it's genuine!"